Rain washes out first day in Galle

The pitch covered with plastic sheeting after rain showers washed out the first day of the opening Test match between Sri Lanka and Pakistan at the Galle International Cricket Stadium – Pic by Shantha Rathnayake

ESPNcrininfo: Rain washed out the opening day of the Test series between Sri Lanka and Pakistan, without a ball bowled or even a coin tossed in Galle. The pitch and outfield remained under covers right through the day, and the umpires officially called off play after an inspection at 1.45 p.m.

By then, it was clear no play would be possible. Persistent showers had kept both teams in their hotel, and the heavy cloud cover had ensured the groundstaff kept the covers on even during dry intervals.

Play will begin 15 minutes early on the four remaining days, with the middle session extended by another 15 minutes.